Growing up, self-care was not part of everyday life. From those I looked up to for guidance the message, at times stated explicitly and other times only implied, was this: Strive to always be a good girl. Taking care of other people was always a priority. If a person spends time making themself happy, they are selfish. This way of thinking was the way that I engaged in life. As an adult, my belief around making other people happy at all cost, became beyond my scope of management. I became a teacher, married and became a mom. My lack of self- awareness as to what I needed to stay healthy mentally and socially was nonexistent. The result: not being present for my loved ones and for myself. NOW I also know meeting my own needs is equally as important. I’ve collaborated professionally with people grappling with how best to take care of themselves. Reach out to me to collaborate a self-care plan for YOU.